Volusia County is intensifying its efforts to combat the opioid crisis, approving $2.6 million in settlement funds during its latest council meeting to expand prevention, treatment, emergency response, and long-term recovery services. The decision underscores the county’s ongoing commitment to tackling one of the most pressing public health challenges facing the region.
The newly approved funding will bolster treatment and recovery programs for individuals and families, enhance prevention education for both youth and adults, equip first responders with lifesaving tools and training, and support public awareness campaigns designed to reduce stigma surrounding addiction. County officials stressed that these measures are not only about saving lives in the immediate term but also about building a stronger foundation for long-term recovery and resilience.
Nine organizations were selected to receive funding in this round: AdventHealth DeLand, the City of DeLand, the City of Holly Hill, Halifax Hospital Medical Center, Law Enforcement Against Drugs and Violence (L.E.A.D.), Live, Love, Life Inc., SMA Healthcare, Volusia Recovery Alliance, and Volusia County’s Community Information Division. Collectively, these groups will expand hospital-based treatment programs, strengthen peer recovery support networks, launch public education initiatives, broaden youth prevention strategies, and enhance emergency response capabilities across the county.
The money comes from the Opioid Regional Settlement Fund, which is comprised of dollars secured through statewide legal settlements with opioid manufacturers, distributors, and related companies. This marks the fourth round of opioid settlement awards approved by the County Council. In the previous three rounds, more than $7.4 million was distributed to local organizations working to address the epidemic. With this latest allocation, total settlement funding in Volusia County now surpasses $10 million.
County leaders emphasized that the funding represents more than financial support—it reflects a unified community response to a crisis that has touched nearly every family in some way. By investing in prevention, treatment, and recovery, Volusia County aims to not only save lives but also restore hope and rebuild trust in the systems designed to protect public health.
This latest round of funding signals a growing momentum in the fight against opioids, with local hospitals, nonprofits, law enforcement, and community organizations working together to create a comprehensive safety net. For Volusia County residents, the message is clear: the fight against addiction is being met with action, collaboration, and determination.
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